Composer

:

Gottfried Finger

Genre

:

Chamber

Publication Date

:

1701

First Performance

:

ca. February, 1701

Average_duration

:

11:02

"The Rival Queens or Alexander the Great" is a baroque opera composed by Gottfried Finger. It was first performed in London in 1697. The opera consists of three acts and is based on the story of Alexander the Great and his two wives, Roxana and Statira. The first act of the opera begins with Alexander's victory over the Persian king Darius. Alexander falls in love with Statira, the daughter of Darius, and marries her. However, Roxana, a beautiful captive, also captures Alexander's heart. The act ends with Alexander torn between his love for Statira and Roxana. The second act of the opera focuses on the rivalry between Statira and Roxana. Statira is jealous of Roxana and plots to have her killed. However, Roxana discovers the plot and convinces Alexander to spare her life. The act ends with Alexander still torn between his two wives. The third act of the opera sees Alexander's downfall. He becomes ill and dies, leaving Statira and Roxana to fight for his throne. The opera ends with Roxana emerging victorious and becoming the queen of Alexander's empire. "The Rival Queens or Alexander the Great" is a prime example of baroque opera. It features elaborate vocal and instrumental music, intricate staging, and dramatic plotlines. The opera also showcases the use of recitative, a style of singing that imitates speech, and aria, a more melodic and expressive style of singing. Overall, "The Rival Queens or Alexander the Great" is a masterpiece of baroque opera. Its intricate plot, elaborate music, and dramatic staging make it a must-see for fans of the genre.

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